Bollywood's best courtroom dramas that are worth watching
Bollywood has a rich history of producing compelling courtroom dramas that capture the intricacies of the Indian legal system and the complexities of its society. These films often combine gripping narratives with powerful performances, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Here are five essential Bollywood courtroom dramas that stand out for their storytelling and cinematic excellence.
'Damini'
Released in 1993, Damini is a poignant tale of a woman's struggle against her own family and the legal system to get justice for her domestic help, who was sexually assaulted. Meenakshi Seshadri's portrayal of Damini is both powerful and heart-wrenching, while Sunny Deol's iconic role as the lawyer delivers some of Bollywood's most memorable dialogues.
'Jolly LLB'
Jolly LLB, which came out in 2013, is a unique blend of satire and drama that takes a dig at the corruption and inefficiencies within the Indian judiciary. Arshad Warsi's performance as a small-time lawyer taking on a high-profile case is both humorous and thought-provoking, making it an unconventional yet significant entry in this genre.
'Pink'
The 2016 film Pink tackles the critical issue of consent and women's rights in India. It features Amitabh Bachchan in a compelling role as an aging lawyer with bipolar disorder, defending three women wrongfully accused of a crime. The narrative confronts societal norms and forcefully underlines the importance of consent, provoking thought and discussion among its viewers.
'Court'
Court, a 2014 film that garnered international acclaim, provides an unembellished examination of the Indian judicial system. It does so through the trial of a folk singer, with director Chaitanya Tamhane opting for a hyperrealistic depiction of courtroom procedures. This approach rejects melodramatic tendencies in favor of genuine representation, offering an experience that engages and resonates with audiences around the world.
'Section 375'
Section 375, released in 2019, critically examines India's legal provisions concerning rape. The narrative unfolds with Akshaye Khanna and Richa Chadha portraying opposing lawyers in a complex case that challenges the boundaries between legal definitions and the essence of moral justice. This film provocatively questions the interpretation of laws and their profound effects on the lives of individuals involved.